Man sentenced in Russia for dancing with toy gun

In a crowded area in the center of Saint Petersburg, the act of an Uzbek young man dancing with a toy weapon cost him dearly. 19-year-old Javokhir Sagdullaev was prosecuted under the charge of “hooliganism” and sentenced to five months in prison.

According to a report by the press service of Saint Petersburg courts, the Smolninsky District Court issued a verdict under Article 213, Part 1, Point “a” of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (gross violation of public order).

Sagdullaev was detained in March by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia. At that time, he was near the “Galeria” shopping mall in the city center among a group of young people, and a widely spread video showed him dancing with a toy weapon in his hands. His actions were assessed as dangerous by the police, and a criminal case was initiated against him.

During the investigation, it was revealed that he deliberately displayed the toy weapon, which caused fear and instability among others. The court considered this a criminal act — influencing others psychologically and disturbing public peace.

At the same time, Sagdullaev admitted his guilt and expressed remorse. In court, he stated that this act was a prank or joke among friends.

In addition, the court considered mitigating factors — the defendant's lack of prior convictions, his age, repentance, and honesty in the investigation.

As noted by the press service, he had been held in a detention center during the investigation period, and this time was counted toward his sentence. Therefore, the punishment is considered served, and he was released in the courtroom.

This case once again demonstrated that Russia applies strict measures regarding violations of public order. Specifically, even actions involving a toy weapon in public places can be treated as a crime.

Officials emphasize that such “pranks” can affect not only the individual’s future but also pose a threat to public stability and safety.

This case is also considered an important signal for labor migrants living and working in Russia. Ignorance of the law does not exempt from responsibility. Even the simplest actions — a joke, a video, a dance — can be treated as a serious offense in some countries.

In conclusion, what seemed to be a “harmless” action by Javokhir Sagdullaev with a toy weapon ended with a five-month prison sentence. Even though the punishment was served during the investigation period, this case should be a serious lesson for our compatriots — every action abroad has legal consequences. What is considered a joke in one place may be a crime in another. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!